PATRIOTIC pride was much in evidence as Odiham villagers lined the streets to honour brave servicemen and women on Armed Forces Day.

Personnel from RAF Odiham were greeted by cheers and applause from the crowds, who waved Union Flags as the procession made its way up the High Street last Saturday.

The parade was led by The Band of the Royal Corps of Signals and a tank, with waving soldiers atop, brought up the rear, while a Chinook helicopter from the base thundered overhead.

The crowd then headed to The Bury for more rousing musical renditions from the brass band, and to listen to speeches from local dignitaries.

North East Hampshire MP James Arbuthnot praised the troops, saying: “What you do is essential and difficult and brave.

“You, at RAF Odiham, have the respect and admiration of our country. You also have the devotion of the local community.

“We in this area love the Chinooks. We think that by hosting you, we are playing our own part in the service of the country through you, and we are grateful to you for that.”

Group Captain Dom Toriati, right, station commander of RAF Odiham, told the crowd: “My overwhelming emotion is of gratitude to you.

“Thank you for your support. Our links to the local community and the county and the country have never been stronger. It has been an honour for all personnel to march today.”

He thanked Odiham Parish Council, which organised the event, and added: “It is the continued support from everyone that makes our operation possible.”

A performance of the National Anthem concluded the formal part of the event, before the crowd were treated to another flypast by an RAF Chinook.

Among those in the crowd was Susan Sampson and her family, from Greywell. Susan, who is ex-military herself, said: “It is a great day, a really good family day out, and it is nice to see people taking the time to recognise the local military. I can’t believe the turnout – there are so many people here today.”

The 45-year-old logistics manager added: “I do think that events like these are really important.”

The parade was followed by the annual Blues and Booze festival, with locals listening to live music, getting the chance to try local ales, and mingling with the service personnel.